Inter Milan’s shock elimination from the Club World Cup at the hands of Brazilian side Fluminense has not only sparked disappointment within the squad—but also internal tensions. Captain Lautaro Martinez made headlines after publicly voicing frustration toward teammates, delivering a no-nonsense warning that has been interpreted as a direct shot at Hakan Calhanoglu, who is reportedly seeking a move to Galatasaray.
Inter Milan fall to Fluminense in Club World Cup disappointment
Inter’s hopes of Club World Cup glory were dashed in Charlotte, North Carolina, after a 2-0 defeat to Fluminense in the Round of 16. Goals from German Cano and Hercules, both capitalizing on defensive mishaps, sealed Inter’s fate. Despite efforts from Martinez and Federico Dimarco, who both hit the woodwork, the Nerazzurri failed to find the back of the net.
“We certainly were not in the match in the first half,” Lautaro Martinez admitted post-match to Sport Mediaset. “We conceded a goal and gave the ball away far too many times.”
He continued, “Fluminense defended deep and well, trying to go on the counter-attack. We did better in the second half, we gave our all. It was very hot, we were tired mentally, we were missing lots of players. I apologise to the fans and everyone who came here to watch us.”
New era under Cristian Chivu begins in turmoil
The defeat marked a challenging start for Cristian Chivu, who stepped into the managerial role following Simone Inzaghi’s departure to Al-Hilal. While Chivu attempted to inject fresh energy into the squad, Martinez's comments revealed deeper issues within the locker room.
“The coach gave us a strong push, even if today we went out of the competition. We have a clear message: anyone who wants to stay must stay, anyone who doesn’t want to stay here should leave,” Lautaro Martinez said.
Though he didn’t name anyone directly, many believe the message was aimed at Calhanoglu, who has been strongly linked with a return to Turkey.
Lautaro Martinez issues strong warning as club looks ahead
Speaking to DAZN, Martinez expanded on his remarks, highlighting a broader issue with commitment within the squad.
“It was a long and tiring season, we finished empty-handed. It is a general message. In order to stay up there and fight for titles, we must be eager, we must be a squad the way we were in the year of the second Scudetto.”
“I am not going to name names. We are here to give our all, but I saw many things I did not like. I am captain, I am the leader of the group, so I have to speak up. The message is clear: those who want to stay and continue challenging for important trophies can do so, otherwise, goodbye.”
While Calhanoglu missed the match due to injury, the timing of the comments and his ongoing transfer speculation has only added fuel to the fire.
With key players possibly on their way out and a disappointing end to the season, Inter now faces a crucial summer. The focus will be on identifying players willing to commit fully under Chivu’s leadership as they attempt to bounce back stronger in the new campaign.
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